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The El Centro Chamber Foundation was established in 2015 to carry out the charitable and education objectives of the El Centro Chamber of Commerce. The voice of business in Imperial County for more than 100 years, the Chamber has been a champion for economic prosperity and quality of life in El Centro and its surrounding areas.

The Chamber’s Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and all gifts to the El Centro Chamber Foundation are deductible for federal and state income tax purposes to the extent provided by law. Federal Tax ID# 47-4123289.

In the area of education, the Foundation works to ensure that youth have equal access to education and high level job training — resulting in a thriving local economy. The Foundation supports cradle-to-career education and workforce development programming within the Chamber.

MISSION

The El Centro Chamber Foundation is a non-profit affiliate of the El Centro Chamber of Commerce whose mission is to support and advance the educational, cultural and economic interest of the Imperial County community by:

developing leadership with a dynamic and innovative vision of the future;

linking the business community in partnership with educational, governmental and non-profit organizations;

serving as a vehicle of research, planning and community education to anticipate and communicate the challenges of the future; and

conducting educational programs aimed to enhance professional and leadership development for businesses for current and future community leaders in the Imperial County community.

2017 WINNERS

Shot Caller Award

Sharon Mousel - Mousel is an extremely dedicated and dependable young lady who definitely qualifies as a positive influence in her community. Currently attending San Diego State University, Mousel continues to volunteer in the community at the Imperial Valley Desert Museum and recently completing her training to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate; she even committed her entire summer to completing the volunteer training.

Community Change Agent Award

Heather and Lindsay White - Heather White has served the less fortunate through Cody’s Closet, a non-profit organization, volunteering countless hours gathering and collecting clothing for children of low-income families free of charge. Lindsay White is an excellent example to young ladies in our community; she has proven to be a dedicated student and athlete all while maintaining a competitive GPA. Lindsay White’s determination and excellent work ethic has earned her acceptance to the University of California in Irvine this fall.

Social Humanitarian Award

Hailey Contreras - Contreras is an eight-time student of the year, a peace builder, attends youth groups through St. Mary’s Church, has raised funds for the Southwest High School chess club, Southwest Latin Dance and is an autism/anti-bullying advocate (inspired by her sister with special needs). Contreras dreams of holding political office while doing social work where she can make a bigger impact on the Valley and its future.

Rock Star Award

Mariam Perez - Perez is a very energetic, competitive student and athlete. She is a strong communicator as is always willing to listen and help anyone in need; including volunteering with MAG Coalition, serving as an alter server at St. Margaret Mary Church, feeding the homeless and volunteering countless hours with other organizations. Perez has also been involved with the Naval Sea Cadets for two years which has definitely added to her maturity level.

Star Power Award

Kiana Nava - What sets Nava apart are her dedication, hard work ethic and compassion for others. Nava was chosen to attend The American Legion Auxiliary Girls State (and was the first Imperial County Delegate elected to run for governor). She also excels in school by maintaining a high GPA and participating in class office, Mock Trial, Future Business Leaders of America Club and is a saxophone player in the Central Union High School Great Spartan Band. Nava has volunteered over 150 hours at local convalescent homes and hospice care facilities, has served as an alter server and assisted with social gatherings at her church.

Trailblazer Award

Isaura Ruiz - Ruiz has demonstrated that she definitely goes above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the success of any project she is involved in. Ruiz will be leaving for college to attend Cal State Fullerton this fall; she has set a goal to become an art teacher and return to Central Union High School to inspire others through art. Ruiz was involved and helped with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.